Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Imphal: Manipur’s tourism sector has stalled since the 2023 ethnic conflict broke out. State officials confirm a sharp decline in visitor numbers, pushing the government to seek new ways to boost revenue. Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh revealed that annual visits plummeted from roughly 1.75 lakh before the crisis to current lows. Government data shows only 28,173 total visits in 2025, with figures for the first half of 2026 reaching just 13,963.
The Chief Minister highlighted the contrast with neighboring regions. Mizoram now draws over 8 lakh visitors annually, while Sikkim sees more than 17 lakh. Singh tied these higher numbers to regional stability. He spoke candidly about the barrier to entry: "The tourism sector, which is expected to generate substantial revenue for Manipur, has witnessed a decline due to the prevailing law and order situation."
State violence has been costly. Since May 2023, 306 people have died and 49 remain missing, according to Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam. Despite these grim metrics, the state is making a push for visibility. On November 24, Manipur will host its first Indian Super League match, featuring NorthEast United FC.
Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and the Chief Minister pushed forward with new digital initiatives during a World Tourism Day event at Sangai Ethnic Park in Bishnupur. The Governor launched the Manipur Tech Innovation Foundation portal, while the Chief Minister relaunched the Explore Manipur website. Officials are also pushing homestay programs to funnel tourism money directly to local families.
Improving infrastructure remains a top priority. The state wants to reach international standards to lure back foreign travelers. Attendees at the Bishnupur ceremony included Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, Art and Culture Minister Khuraijam Loken Singh, the Chief Secretary, and the Director General of Police.
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